Jeffrey gets glowing endorsement for CM post amid GRS' darkest hour

Summary

• Sabah Star women’s wing chief Kerry Chee says public opinions bear witness to his character.

• Chee lauds her president’s pragmatic and inclusive political approach.

• Women’s wing chief guarantees that he will do things in extraordinary ways.

Amid an alleged corruption scandal shaking Gabungan Rakyat Sabah (GRS), Jeffrey Kitingan has found himself in the spotlight twice - first as a potential interim chief minister and second as the rumoured mastermind behind a supposed plot to unseat Hajiji Noor.

The Parti Solidariti Tanahairku (Sabah Star) president has since voiced his support for Hajiji’s leadership and denied being the hidden hand behind the whistleblower who leaked several videos implicating GRS assemblypersons.

However, Sabah Star women’s wing chief Kerry Chee believes that if “circumstances forced a leadership change”, the veteran politician would be the best candidate for the job.

In a statement, she paid a glowing tribute to her president, saying the public opinions that he should lead the state “bore witness to his character as a visionary leader and also as an architect of what Sabah could potentially become”.

On the same note, she said while the party welcomes the public recognition of its leader, the statements by various local leaders and the public were just their personal opinions.

“I think it’s because he’s been consistent in his struggles for Sabah. I know that he has a genuine heart for Sabah and Sabahans. He is more a political activist rather than a politician whose agenda is to make Sabah great,” she added.

Be extraordinary Sabahans

According to Chee (above, left), Jeffrey, who is the deputy chief minister, always emphasises the need for Sabahans to be extraordinary to meet the socio-economic and political challenges.

She noted that his extensive political experience, unwavering commitment to the state’s development, and ability to unite various factions have placed him at the forefront of the conversation about Sabah’s future leadership, especially amid the ongoing political attacks against the Sabah political parties, leaders and the state government.

She pointed out that his political journey spans over three decades, during which he has earned a reputation as a tireless advocate for Sabah’s rights and autonomy within Malaysia.

“He has consistently pushed for greater political and economic empowerment for the people of Sabah, advocating for the rights enshrined in the Malaysia Agreement 1963.

“His efforts to secure more equitable resource distribution and political autonomy have garnered significant support, particularly among those who feel marginalised by federal policies,” she added.

Chee said Jeffrey’s vision for Sabah’s future centres on the principles of self-sufficiency, equitable development, and respect for the rights of Sabahans.

“He has been vocal in advocating for reforms that would grant the state more control over its natural resources, echoing the aspirations of many Sabahans who seek greater authority over their land and economic future.

“His advocacy for a fairer allocation of the state’s oil and gas revenues is a cornerstone of his political philosophy, aiming to address long-standing inequalities in Sabah's development,” she added.

Broad-based coalition

Chee said through his leadership of Sabah Star, Jeffrey has worked to build a broad-based coalition, bringing together various ethnic groups, political parties, and civil society organisations.

His approach to politics, she added, has been seen as pragmatic and inclusive, with an emphasis on ensuring that Sabah’s diverse communities are equally represented in the decision-making process.

She further noted that Jeffrey’s competence in governance is further reflected in his ability to navigate complex political landscapes.

“As Sabah’s political scene is often characterised by shifting alliances and coalition-building, Jeffrey has shown that he possesses the diplomatic skills necessary to unite diverse factions under a common vision.

“This has proven essential in securing the political stability needed for the state’s progress.

“It’s therefore understandable that public opinion polls and political analysts have increasingly identified him as a leader capable of providing the strong, competent leadership Sabah needs,” she added.

Chee said Jeffrey’s focus on Sabah’s prosperity, social equity, and political autonomy has earned him support not only among his party’s base but also from various sectors of society who feel their concerns are being addressed.

She emphasised that despite all the recognitions given to Jeffrey, people must never forget that his leadership qualities shine because Sabah is gaining strength politically, thanks to the collective vision and efforts of state leaders.

“I know our president will never take personal credit. He works with all the other leaders as a team for the interest of Sabah.

“But if circumstances force a leadership change in Sabah, I agree with many people that he has the qualities to lead Sabah as chief minister.

“If he gets the blessing of Sabahans to assume the position, I can only guarantee that he will do things in extraordinary ways,” she said.

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